It’s a yard sale on steroids. Each year, on a Saturday around Easter time, many residents of the charming and eclectic little town of Abita Springs jump-start their spring cleaning by taking part in the Whole Town Garage Sale and Flea Market.

Bargain hunters drive or stroll the streets hunting for all kinds of second-hand treasures, from kids’ clothing, furniture and housewares to vintage items, jewelry, art and books. You never know what you’re going to find and that’s half the fun.

The brainchild in 1994 of Abita artist and wild man John Preble, who founded the town’s popular roadside attraction-like Abita Mystery House, the garage sale now is officially produced by the town of Abita Springs.

In addition to the massive street-by- street garage sale, bargains are to be found in vendor booths set up around the field across from Town Hall at 22161 Level St. Parking is available in the field.

Some tips: You’ll want to hit the streets early. Sale hours are from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Bring cash. Put on your most comfortable shoes and your best haggle face. If haggling makes you hungry, there are a number of restaurants in the heart of town ready to help replenish your energy stores, and there’s great beer, too, at the Abita Brew Pub, to quench your thirst when bottled water just won’t do.